The Florida Gators are continuing to reshape their special teams unit through the transfer portal, and their latest addition brings a bit of a homecoming twist. Former Texas A&M kicker Liam Padron, a St. Augustine native, is heading back to the Sunshine State to suit up for Florida in 2026.
Padron’s time at Texas A&M was limited in terms of on-field action-he didn’t attempt a field goal or extra point during his two seasons in College Station. His game reps came on kickoffs, with one in 2024 and five in 2025, including four in a late-season matchup against Samford. Still, with three years of eligibility remaining, Florida is betting on his potential and leg strength as part of their broader special teams rebuild.
Padron originally committed to the Aggies as part of the 2024 class, choosing Texas A&M over offers from Syracuse and Appalachian State. Now, he becomes the sixth special teams player to transfer into Gainesville this offseason, joining a wave of specialists brought in under new head coach Jon Sumrall.
That list includes former Tulane punter Alec Clark and kicker Patrick Durkin, Louisiana long snapper Carter Milliron, UT-Martin punter Miller Fealy, and Washington long snapper Hunter Swolwold. It’s a full-scale overhaul, and it’s clear Sumrall is prioritizing stability and experience in the third phase of the game.
Durkin, in particular, brings a proven track record. He was Tulane’s starting kicker under Sumrall in 2025 and for part of the 2024 season, connecting on 27 of 32 field goal attempts and going nearly perfect on PATs (57-of-58). He also showed off his range, hitting four field goals from 50 yards or more-an asset that could be a game-changer in close SEC matchups.
Sumrall, who took over the Gators after leading Tulane to a historic College Football Playoff appearance, is clearly putting his stamp on the program early. Special teams often fly under the radar, but they can swing momentum and win games in the SEC. With a mix of trusted veterans and young talent like Padron, Florida is quietly assembling a unit that could make a real impact in 2026 and beyond.